1. Learning Group: Using Social Networks to Support Students Becka Currant, Dean of Students University of Bradford UK

2. Central question Does providing an online space for students to meet each other prior to arrival help with the process of transition?

3. Context Providing a social space for students to meet each other prior to arrival helps with transition. Develop Me! has been extensively reviewed and evaluated by a number of externally funded projects. Student and staff feedback is very positive Our retention rates have increased since it was introduced

4. What is Develop Me! Meet and chat online Meet and chat, pre- entry activities developme.ning.com Online resources www.bradford.ac.uk/ developme Skills tracking Mobile guides www.braduni.mobi Student voice Expectations survey First Year Experience questionnaire Student experience research

5. Central question Does providing an online space for students to meet each other prior to arrival help with the process of transition?

6. Additional Questions… How can universities develop university wide strategies for the use of social media? What additional support might be needed? How can we best support learners in transition to new ways of studying, new expectations and new modes of technology use? How can we ensure this type of approach is inclusive?